Port Macquarie is a must stop location for international travellers on a budget or Sydney-siders looking for a budget weekend away.
Port Macquarie holidays are not limited to expensive weekends, and many travellers do it on a budget. Here are some ideas on what you should take and what to do, and how to get there from Sydney. If you are a backpacker arriving in Australia for the first time, Sydney is highly recommended, as it is the destination of most international flights. You will also find out a lot of local information about Australia from other travellers before you head out into the bush! For those of you looking for a more affordable weekend, here are some ideas.
- Accommodation. A Port Macquarie hotel can range greatly in price, from the expensive 5 star option to more fashionable trendy boutique style. These are often great value and give you that classy feel without the budget breaking price. For those with limited accommodation budgets, there are a huge range of backpackers. If you are staying in a Backpacker in Sydney, see which ones have partnership arrangements, and for a small membership fee you can probably get a discount at other places – and some priority treatment.
- Getting there. Look for share driving — often the case if you are staying in backpackers in Sydney, as some backpackers will purchase a cheap second hand car for their stay. Second hand cars are cheap and plentiful in Australia. As it is a buyer’s market, you might be surprised at what you can get for a few thousand dollars or less. Bus is the best way for those on a budget. Although if you book ahead flights are only around 100 dollars.
- Getting around. Taxis are always expensive in Australia and should not be your first option. If you are travelling by bus, you can take your bicycle. Port Macquarie is easy to get around on by bike. Not only good for your health, but good for the environment. Look for accommodation that has arrangements with tour operators, and look for a discount when booking with higher numbers of people. Also look for a discount if you are booking more than one activity – all of these should include transport to and from your adventure.
- Adventure and Fun. Port Macquarie and the surrounding area is loaded with outdoor activities that will get your blood pumping and really enjoy that drink at the end of the day. You are sure to have a load of stories for evening get togethers. Activities include; coastal skydiving; abseiling, mountain biking, kayaking or freshwater fishing. Paintball and skirmish for those who want to get back at a snoring travel partner.
- Nightlife. Like any other Australian town and city, you will always find a high end nightclub for those who like the latest in clubbing and a range of cheap bars with bargain drinking times. Altitude is considered the best nightclub, and many of the backpackers and budget hotels have good drinks deals and are a great way to meet others in your spending category.
Don’t skip on Port Macquarie on your trip north, as you will find that is on the way to Queensland destinations.
